Kamala Harris has become a beacon of hope, inspiring young black girls and historically marginalized communities nationwide. Her path from district attorney to attorney general to senator to vice president and now the Democratic nominee for the 2024 Presidential Election illustrates determination, passion, and the belief that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. Although her pathway to success has been challenging, Kamala's journey is a testament to the power of voting, advocacy, and using one's voice to effect change.
At 318 Foundation, we are inspired by her journey, but we are committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders who, like Kamala, will break barriers and uplift their communities. Our role in this mission is crucial, and empowering individuals will empower their communities. We celebrate diversity and aim to create a welcoming and supportive culture where all can have the audacity to dream without limits or boundaries. 318 Foundation provides programs to inspire, advance, and empower all young, underrepresented girl-identifying individuals to pursue their dreams.
As we reflect on Kamala Harris's journey, it is essential to highlight that her rise to becoming the first female, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President of the United States is more than just a historical moment—it is a symbol of possibility for those who aspire to lead. Harris's education at Howard University, UC Hastings College of the Law, and membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. reflect her commitment to service, community activism, and sisterhood, aligning with her values of public service. A trailblazer of leadership, Kamala's journey in service is fueled by education and resilience and reflects the importance of these qualities in achieving one's dreams. Her story shows our Visionaries at the 318 Foundation that no dream is too big.
With determination, they can overcome any obstacle, emphasizing the message of having the audacity to dream as big as your heart desires. We pride ourselves on offering enriching opportunities for Visionaries to be involved in their communities and engaged with government systems. Whether through community service across Louisiana or participating in the National Youth Leadership Institute (NYLI) with activities like Monument Tours and Capitol Hill Advocacy Day, these experiences are essential to helping our Visionaries develop their potential and lead with confidence. Such confidence is reflected in Kamala Harris, who has championed voting rights throughout her career, emphasizing civic engagement's critical role in shaping a just society. By empowering our students with the knowledge and tools to participate in the democratic process, we help them seize control of their futures and advocate for their communities.
Our girls gain invaluable insights and skills that help them become future leaders and change-makers. We can't fail to mention a remarkable woman who reflects that experience and had her own experience in the White House. Michelle Obama, the first Black First Lady of the United States, has been a powerful advocate for education, health, and civic engagement. Michelle's educational background and career reflect her unwavering commitment to empowering others, particularly young Black girls and marginalized communities. While avoiding being labeled a politician, Michelle has been influential in creating initiatives like "Reach Higher" to advocate for students to reach higher education and "When We All Vote" to increase voter participation. As Kamala Harris has blazed trails in the political arena, Michelle Obama has led the charge in civic advocacy, making them a dynamic duo in the fight for equality, empowerment, and breaking barriers and being role models for young girls and shattering that glass ceiling and opening doors for future generations.
At the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Michelle Obama challenged the nation to rise above complacency with a powerful call to action: "Don't just sit around and complain. Do something." This message profoundly aligns with the 318 Foundation's mission to empower young women to take control of their futures and advocate for positive change in their communities. Michelle reminds us that progress isn't achieved by waiting on the sidelines but by actively engaging in the necessary work. Just as she urged Americans to "be the antidote to the darkness and division," the 318 Foundation encourages our Visionaries to step up, use their voices, and make a tangible impact. Our programs help girls express themselves, embrace their uniqueness, pursue excellence, and connect with valuable opportunities that shape their personal and professional growth.
We encourage everyone to see themselves in Kamala and Michelle and understand that they, too, can be leaders and advocates in their communities. Their impact and legacies are not anomalies but sources of empowerment and inspiration. The doors they open are yours to walk through, and as you do, you leave the old doors open for others while continuing to open new ones in front of you.
We invite you to join us in this mission as we look to the future. Ensure your voice is heard by registering to vote and utilizing your right—voting is not just a right but a vital civic duty.
Here are some resources to get you started:
Register To Vote: https://vote.gov/
State & Local Elections: https://www.usa.gov/state-local-elections
Guide to Voting: https://vote.gov/guide-to-voting
